Published by ChinaMNC · Luolong

Registering a company in China: documents, steps and timeline

A practical guide for founders setting up a company in Luolong, Henan, covering required documents, registration steps, and typical timelines under China's company law and local procedures.

Why Luolong, Henan?

Luolong District is an administrative district of Luoyang, Henan Province. It hosts industrial parks and is accessible via local transport networks. For foreign founders, the registration process follows China's national framework, with local variations in processing times and office practices. This guide outlines the typical documents, steps, and timeline for registering a company in Luolong, based on publicly available regulations and standard procedures. It does not constitute legal advice.

Key considerations before you start

Foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) in China are subject to the Foreign Investment Law and the Company Law. Since 2020, the negative list approach applies: sectors not on the negative list generally receive national treatment. Founders should confirm whether their business scope falls under restricted or prohibited categories. Also decide on the company type—most founders choose a limited liability company (LLC). A wholly foreign-owned enterprise (WFOE) is a common LLC variant for foreign investors.

Luolong-specific factors include local industrial policies and park management requirements. Check with the Luolong District Administration for Market Regulation (AMR) and, if applicable, the park authority for any additional filings.

Documents required

The exact list can vary by company type and business scope. The following are commonly requested for a foreign-invested LLC:

• Company name pre-approval: Several proposed names in Chinese, with English translations. Names must comply with naming rules and not conflict with existing registrations.
• Articles of association: Signed by all shareholders, specifying governance, capital, and profit distribution.
• Shareholder documents: For corporate shareholders, notarized and apostilled (or consular legalized) certificate of incorporation, board resolution, and authorized signatory passport copy. For individual shareholders, passport copies, often notarized/apostilled.
• Legal representative appointment: Appointment document and passport copy of the legal representative.
• Registered address proof: Lease agreement and property ownership certificate, or a park-issued address certificate. The address must be commercial or otherwise eligible.
• Capital contribution plan: Details of subscribed capital and contribution schedule, consistent with the articles.
• Business scope: Drafted according to the standard industrial classification; some activities require pre- or post-licensing.
• Investor credit information: Sometimes requested for foreign investors; check with the local AMR.
• Power of attorney: If a agent handles the filing.

Documents in foreign languages typically require Chinese translations. Notarization and apostille requirements depend on the investor's jurisdiction and current practice.

Registration steps

Step 1: Name pre-approval

Submit proposed names via the local AMR online system or in person. Approval is usually quick if names comply. This reserves the name for a limited period.

Step 2: Prepare and submit establishment materials

Compile the documents above and submit through the Henan Government Service Network or at the Luolong AMR window. The AMR reviews for completeness and compliance. Expect requests for clarification or amendments.

Step 3: Obtain the business license

Once approved, the AMR issues the business license (often with a unified social credit code). This is the legal birth of the company.

Step 4: Post-license filings

After the license, complete:

• Seal carving: Company seal, financial seal, legal representative seal, and invoice seal. Seals must be filed with the public security bureau.
• Bank account opening: Basic deposit account and, if needed, foreign currency account. Banks conduct due diligence.
• Tax registration: Supplement tax information and choose taxpayer status. This is often integrated with the business license process but may require separate confirmation.
• Social insurance and housing fund registration: Required if hiring employees.
• Foreign exchange registration: For FIEs, register with the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) or via the bank.
• Customs registration: If engaging in import/export.

Some sectors require additional licenses (e.g., food, education). Confirm whether your business scope triggers pre-approval.

Timeline

Timelines vary with document readiness, sector, and local workload. The following are typical, not guaranteed:

• Name pre-approval: 1–3 working days.
• Establishment review and business license: 3–10 working days after complete submission, assuming no complications.
• Seals: 1–3 working days.
• Bank account: 1–3 weeks, depending on bank and due diligence.
• Tax and related filings: 1–2 weeks.
• Total: Often 3–8 weeks for a straightforward FIE, but can extend if notarization, apostille, or sector approvals are needed.

Founders should build buffer time for document legalization and translation. Local AMR processing capacity and holidays can affect timing.

Practical tips for Luolong

• Engage local professionals: A local lawyer or agent can help navigate AMR requirements and address issues.
• Verify address eligibility: Confirm the registered address is accepted for your business scope. Industrial parks may offer address services.
• Plan capital contributions: The Company Law requires shareholders to contribute according to the articles. Ensure the schedule is realistic.
• Keep records: Maintain a complete file of submissions and approvals for future compliance.
• Check negative list: Confirm your sector is not restricted; if it is, additional approvals apply.

Disclaimer

This article provides general information only and is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Requirements and procedures can change. Consult qualified professionals and the relevant Chinese authorities for your specific situation. No outcome or timeline is guaranteed.